Catalyst - invasive species by boat

The ABC Catalyst program aired some very interesting research into the dangers of boats to the marine environment.

Apparently some species have evolved to handle heavy metals and are attracted to certain paints applied to hulls of boats.

It is called antifouling paint - applied to all boats to discourage growth on the hull.

These species out compete local species and hence get transported around the globe.

This may be why it is very rare to see a clean port.

After reading this article would you go for a swim at a local marina?

Australia welcomes tourists. But frankly there are some we could do without. Meet the Siberian sea squirt, and his mate, Diplosoma listerianum. They like heavy metal, travel on the cheap, and once they hit an Australian port, they have a tendency to overstay their visa - at the cost of the locals.Refer to http://www.abc.net.au/catalyst/stories/2395780.htm